2002 Alfa Romeo 147
2002 Alfa Romeo 147
Overview
The 2002 Alfa Romeo 147, a popular Italian hatchback, aimed to blend sporty driving dynamics with stylish design. While it garnered praise for its aesthetics and handling, like many vehicles of its era, it presented a mixed bag in terms of long-term reliability. Owners often reported a passion for the car’s character, but this was sometimes tempered by the need for more frequent maintenance and repairs compared to some of its German or Japanese rivals. Specific areas, particularly related to electronics and certain engine components, were more prone to issues. However, for enthusiasts who appreciated its unique appeal, the 147 could still be a rewarding ownership experience with diligent care.
Engine
1.6L Twin Spark Petrol
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid
- Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the VVT solenoid.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Water Pump Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat.
- Cost: $300 - $500
2.0L Twin Spark Petrol
Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid
- Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the VVT solenoid.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Water Pump Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of the water pump and thermostat.
- Cost: $300 - $500
1.9L JTD Diesel
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke, whistling noise.
- Solution: Turbocharger repair or replacement.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
EGR Valve Malfunction
- Symptoms: Rough idle, poor performance, check engine light.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Transmission
5-Speed Manual
Clutch Wear
- Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears.
- Solution: Clutch replacement.
- Cost: $600 - $1000
Selespeed (Automated Manual)
Hydraulic Pump Failure
- Symptoms: Failure to select gears, error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic pump and accumulator.
- Cost: $1000 - $2000
Actuator Issues
- Symptoms: Jerky gear changes, inability to engage gears.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the gearbox actuator.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Front Wishbone Bushings
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering.
- Solution: Replacement of front wishbone bushings.
- Cost: $250 - $450
Rear Shock Absorbers
- Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, visible leaks.
- Solution: Replacement of rear shock absorbers.
- Cost: $300 - $500
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
Intermittent Faults
- Symptoms: Malfunctioning lights, power windows, central locking, dashboard warnings.
- Solution: Diagnosis and potential reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1200
Window Regulators
Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not working, window dropping into the door.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
- Cost: $200 - $400
ABS Sensor
Faulty Sensor
- Symptoms: ABS warning light illuminated, ABS system not functioning.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
Exterior
Body Panels
Rust
- Symptoms: Corrosion on wheel arches, sills, and around windows.
- Solution: Rust repair and preventative treatment.
- Cost: $300 - $1000+
Headlight Lenses
Clouding/Yellowing
- Symptoms: Reduced light output, poor aesthetics.
- Solution: Polishing or replacement of headlight lenses.
- Cost: $100 - $300
Interior
Air Conditioning System
Compressor Failure
- Symptoms: No cold air, unusual noises from the AC system.
- Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor and potentially a system flush.
- Cost: $700 - $1200
Dashboard Trim
Peeling/Bubbling
- Symptoms: Soft-touch dashboard material degrading.
- Solution: Replacement of trim pieces or professional refurbishment.
- Cost: $200 - $600
Summary Verdict
The 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 offers a compelling blend of Italian style and driving enjoyment, but potential buyers should be aware of its reliability profile. While the engines and manual transmissions are generally robust, the Selespeed automated manual gearbox can be a significant source of expense. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the Body Control Module and window regulators, are common. Suspension components like bushings and shock absorbers may require attention. Exterior rust can be an issue on neglected examples, and interior trim can degrade. Overall, the 147 requires a commitment to maintenance and a willingness to address specific common faults to ensure a positive ownership experience.